Top Upgrades to Increase Home Value – What Home Improvements Add the Most Value?

Posted October 23rd, 2025 by Garage Door Specialist

When most homeowners think about the top upgrades to increase home value, kitchens and bathrooms usually come to mind. But according to national reports, if you’re looking for what home improvements add the most value, garage door replacement consistently ranks as one of the top investments you can make in your home.

In 2024, garage door replacement had an incredible 194% return on investment which is the highest of any home project in the United States. At Garage Door Specialist, we see firsthand why a new garage door pays off in more ways than one.

First Impressions Matter

Your garage door is often the single largest feature on the front of your home. If it’s old, faded, cracked, or dented, buyers immediately wonder what else hasn’t been maintained. On the other hand, a modern, well-designed door makes your home look cared for, updated, and inviting. It sets the tone before anyone even walks inside.

What Home Improvements Add The Most Value?

Real estate agents will tell you: curb appeal sells. A fresh garage door with the right style and color can completely transform the look of your house.

Popular options like carriage-style doors, accent wood grain finishes, and glass window inserts add architectural interest that gets noticed. When buyers see a home with a new garage door, they see value and fewer upcoming expenses.

Energy Efficiency and Comfort

Today’s insulated garage doors don’t just look good. They work hard. Insulated steelback or urethane-injected models keep garages cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. That matters when the garage is used as a workshop, gym, or playroom, and it matters even more when living spaces are directly above. Buyers love knowing their new home will be energy efficient, and that translates to a higher selling price.

Safety and Reliability

New garage doors also come with the latest in safety and technology, including stronger torsion springs, high-cycle hardware, and openers with advanced safety beams and smart home connectivity. Buyers see peace of mind and convenience, while sellers see higher offers.

How Can I Dramatically Increase My Home Value?

In 2024, garage door replacement was ranked #1 in cost vs. value projects nationwide with a 194% return. That means homeowners who spent, for example, $3,000 on a new garage door added nearly $6,000 in resale value to their homes. It outperformed kitchens, bathrooms, and siding replacements. For sellers, it’s one of the smartest pre-sale investments they can make. For homeowners planning to stay put, the value shows up every day in comfort, safety, and savings.

The Bottom Line: A Small Investment With a Big Payoff

Replacing your garage door is one of the rare home projects that not only pays for itself but actually doubles your investment. Add in the improved curb appeal, energy efficiency, safety, and everyday convenience, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the top upgrades to increase home value.